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Blister on hand causes Ethier to be out of lineup

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Outlook: Ethier, RF, LAD 0:33

Andre Ethier's power numbers have tailed off but he enters 2013 as part a stacked lineup and could post strong RBI and runs totals for LA

By Ken Gurnick

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier was scratched from Friday's lineup against the Angels because of a hand blister, manager Don Mattingly said. Cuban rookie Yasiel Puig was to start in his place.

The blister is in the same place as one that tore badly last season and Mattingly said a day of rest is precautionary to prevent the situation from repeating.

"That got nasty and we're giving him a day to dry it out," said Mattingly. "He could play, but it doesn't make a lot of sense."

Tony Gwynn, out since Monday with a sore left groin muscle, was in the starting lineup. Justin Sellers, however, was still hobbled after having an ingrown toenail removed and Mattingly said he's likely to return to game action Saturday.

Ken Gurnick is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.